Harris Family Athletic Complex Dedication Video

Harris Family Athletic Complex Impact Video

GVNext Story

Special thanks to Brian Vernellis for his contribution to this page.

The formal dedication for the Harris Family Athletic Complex concluded Wednesday (Sept. 13) with a ceremony in the Jim Scott Wrestling Room with more than 300 in attendance. Grand Valley State President Philomena V. Mantella, Director of Athletics Keri Becker, wrestling alum John Harris, men's wrestling head coach Joey Simcoe and women's wrestling head coach Jake Short each spoke at the event. 

After 30-year absence, the Grand Valley State varsity men's wrestling program will return to competition in 2023-24 with a dual meet versus Cornerstone in the GVSU Fieldhouse Arena November 1 at 7 p.m. The newly formed GVSU women's wrestling program will begin competition in 2024-25. 

Built as an extension on the Fieldhouse, the Harris Family Athletic Complex houses a three-mat gymnasium with seating for 300 fans, a weight room, an expansive athletic training room available for all varsity athletes as well as offices for coaches and staff. The complex also features space for academic advising and development offices, a refueling station, and a lounge and study space for student athletes.

"Thank you to John and Diane Harris and their family, who committed the lead donation, and the many generous supporters," said President Philomena V. Mantella. "Their gifts assure young men and women committed to collegiate wrestling can pursue the same Grand Valley education that richly influenced the lives of the Harris family and supporters." 

Harris is one of the most decorated wrestlers in school history. In his four years on the team (1973-76), Harris compiled a 117-19-5 record, winning three GLIAC championships (134 pounds) and finishing as runner-up at the NAIA Nationals twice. Harris was inducted into the Lakers Hall of Fame in 1988.

"I'm so excited about what men's and women's wrestling are going to do for Grand Valley and what they will bring to our athletic department and our institution," said Becker. "You're sitting in this new space that's been made possible by all of you here." 

During its 26-year history, Grand Valley wrestling was one of the top programs in the NAIA and NCAA Division II. More than 50 Lakers earned All-American status, while the team won five GLIAC championships and finished runner-up 10 times. At the NAIA Nationals, Grand Valley finished runner-up twice and in fourth place three times.

"Not only can we bring back the legacy that wrestling was at Grand Valley, we can create that opportunity for future generations, which means everything to me," said Harris. "And, not only bring it back, but bring it back the Grand Valley way, which is so crucial."